What should I study to become a manager?

A degree in business administration can give you a strong foundation in the essential skills and concepts you need to achieve a managerial role. This degree covers key business areas, such as finance, marketing, business operations, and of course, business management.

• Management

Some colleges and universities offer management degrees specifically, but you can also take courses on management as electives for whichever major you happen to pursue. Studying management can help you develop key skills like leadership, problem-solving, decision-making, and team organization and building.

• Communication

A communication major or elective classes are a great addition to your education if you wish to be a manager. Communication skills in general are essential to management. This will help you understand and develop skills like active listening, interpersonal communication, and conflict resolution.

• Finance and Accounting

These majors and areas of study are essential if you are trying to become a manager in the financial sector. However, they can provide valuable education to just about any kind of manager in any type of industry. Finance and accounting will help you comprehend how to manage budgets, financially forecast, and make informed business-related decisions.

• Psychology

While you might not want to major in psychology to become a manager, having a background in this area can significantly help you in your managerial career. Psychology is the study of human behavior and thoughts. This can help you to understand how you can best engage and motivate employees, as well as help you to develop keen emotional intelligence.

• Project management

This depends on the industry you want to go in. However, many managers are responsible for overseeing projects, and putting together teams to work on specific projects, tasks, goals, and objectives. Studying project management can inform you on how to best plan, organize, and execute projects in an effective and efficient manner.